Is it appropriate to express interest in moving to another division if the work aligns better with my education and career goals?

I’m currently working in the public service and I’m trying to understand the proper etiquette around internal career mobility.

There are a couple of divisions whose portfolios align much more closely with my background and long-term career goals. I feel I could contribute more meaningfully in those areas, especially with upcoming organizational changes happening over the next few months.

My question is:

What’s the right way to express interest in exploring opportunities in another division without creating problems in my current role?

Is it appropriate to:

•	reach out to a Director/Executive Director in another division for an informational chat?

•	ask HR or a Talent Advisor if there are areas that match my skills/background?

•	quietly network during the reorganization period?

And is it ever considered appropriate to contact a Deputy Minister directly to express interest, or is that something to avoid?

I want to handle this professionally and respectfully, so any advice or experiences would be appreciated.

Posted Dec 11, 2025, 9:31 AM UTC

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